Book writing- Are state government publications protected under copyright?

Question

I would like to write a book compiling certain information from the Colorado state government. Can you copy this information word for word or is there some type of copyright law protecting it?

Answer 1

Here's what the US Copyright Office has to say:

"Publications Incorporating U.S. Government Works

Works by the U.S. Government are not eligible for copyright protection. For works published on and after March 1, 1989, the previous notice requirement for works consisting primarily of one or more U.S. Government works has been eliminated. However, use of a notice on such a work will defeat a claim of innocent infringement as previously described provided the notice also includes a statement that identifies either those portions of the work in which copyright is claimed or those portions that constitute U.S. Government material. An example is: “© 2004 Ann Doe. Copyright claimed in Chapters 7–10, exclusive of U.S. Government maps.”

Copies of works published before March 1, 1989, that consist primarily of one or more works of the U.S. Government should have a notice and the identifying statement."

Hope that helps!

Answer 2

Anything written is usually covered by copyright laws. On the other hand, it sounds as though all you're wanting to do is use the material as reference. Referencing another book or publication is probably okay as long as you are willing to quote your source.